Jacksonville-based architectural and engineering firm RS&H is tapped to help the Jacksonville Aviation Authority pursue a re-entry license at Cecil Airport, a step toward transforming the former naval air station from a one-way launch site into a two-way spaceport logistics hub.
The authority evaluated RS&H’s proposal March 27 and, according to procurement clearinghouse website DemandStar, the re-entry license request for qualifications attracted 10 interested firms.
According to the RFQ, the contract is expected to be executed this month.
A re-entry license is a Federal Aviation Administration authorization required for commercial spacecraft to return from Earth orbit or outer space, ensuring public safety during landing or impact. The FAA’s review criteria include safety and risk assessment, environmental review, financial responsibility and compliance.
A license would facilitate payload recovery, technology validation and increase commercial viability, JAA has said.
In its response, RS&H listed Woomera Test Range in Australia, Lelystad Spaceport in the Netherlands and Prestwick Spaceport in Scotland among its spaceport clients. RS&H also reported it assisted Cecil Spaceport with its launch license in 2010.
RS&H said Cecil Spaceport is well-positioned for re-entry operations, citing its limited airspace constraints, proximity to two major interstate systems and existing airfield and industrial infrastructure, as well as its current launch site operator’s license.
RS&H also cited Northeast Florida’s workforce as an asset and said, “Financially, no spaceport survives on launch revenue.”
The re-entry license project is funded by Space Florida, the state’s aerospace finance and development agency, at a cost of about $600,000, according to Matt Bocchino, managing director at Cecil.
Bocchino said Feb. 18 the application process could stretch to 2028.
“There’s a lot with the FAA. It’s a very stringent, strict safety process. The FAA is very cognizant of the people on the ground,” Bocchino said. “The consultant is going to do a lot of math.”
The JAA board voted unanimously Aug. 27, 2025, to approve a resolution supporting the re-entry license effort.
The resolution states that acquiring the license would “expand aerospace capabilities in Northeast Florida” and leverage Cecil Spaceport’s existing infrastructure, including its 12,500-foot runway and horizontal launch license.
The resolution also cites potential benefits including biomedical and commercial space-based research and strategic partnerships with Texas-based Intuitive Machines and Jacksonville-based Hermeus and Redwire Space to advance re-entry systems, hypersonic testing and satellite production.
On March 11, the state Senate unanimously approved legislation to amend the Jacksonville Aviation Authority charter to articulate the agency’s responsibility to attract business to Cecil Airport and to grow it as an aerospace hub.
The RS&H presentation did not include financial terms.